First Spare the Air alert of the season issued
SAN FRANCISCO (KTVU) -- The Bay Area Air District has declared a Spare the Air day for Wednesday as much of the region bakes under soaring temperatures.
This will be the first air quality alert day for the 2017 spring/summer season.
Air district officials are advising Bay Area residents to reduce driving and to limit outdoor exercise to the early morning hours when concentrations of smog, otherwise known as ozone, are lower.
Spare the Air alerts are issued when smog pollution is forecast to reach unhealthy levels. Smog can cause throat irritation, congestion, chest pain, trigger asthma, inflame the lining of the lungs, and worsen bronchitis or emphysema.
>>>>>For tips on how to respond for alert days: Click here.
Ozone pollution is particularly harmful for young children, seniors, and those with heart and lung conditions. Long-term exposure to smog can cause respiratory problems.
KTVU meteorologist Steve Paulson said Wednesday will be hot but slightly cooler conditions are on tap for the region.